support Swiss representations in safeguarding Switzerland’s interests and in emergencies involving Swiss citizens abroad. In an emergency the representation responsible (embassy or consulate-general) must be contacted immediately.

A selection of websites explaining how Switzerland is structured and how it functions, providing you with the information you will need to form an opinion and exercise your political rights from overseas

Services

Contact the responsible Swiss representation or consulate when you want to register or unregister as a resident, when you need a new passport, have moved or wish to apply for citizenship. The entire selection of services offered can be found in the dropdown menu to the right. The contact details of the responsible Swiss representation are shown on the corresponding page.

Swiss citizens who get into difficulties abroad, also can ask for advice and help from the Swiss representative.

The magazine for the Swiss Abroad appears six times a year and provides information about what is happening at home and the activities of Swiss associations abroad. It also answers administrative questions.

FDFA services abroad

Choose your service!

Online desk

With the online desk you have the possibility to access consular services, such as registering in the Swiss Abroad Register, notifications of changes of civil status, changes of address.

Business activities in Switzerland

Switzerland is one of the most successful business locations in the world. It offers a favourable investment environment, a skilled work force, an excellent infrastructure and outstanding universities and research institutes. Taxes are relatively low and the currency and prices stable.

Easy to start a company

In Switzerland entrepreneurs do not need special approval from the authorities or professional or trade associations to found a company. The only requirements are residence and work permits. Special permission or certificates are necessary to practise certain professions and to found certain companies. There are limitations in respect of state monopolies (railways, post office).

High productivity

The productivity of Swiss workers is high. Characteristics of the labour market include liberal labour laws, a light touch in regulation and a high level of social stability. As Switzerland is a multilingual country, employees often speak several languages.

Favourable environment

Switzerland’s geographic position offers an ideal economic environment. The country’s infrastructure is among the best in the world. Other attractions of Switzerland include the cultural diversity and wide choice of recreational activities.

Low taxes

By comparison with other European countries, taxes on corporate and personal income are low. Value-added tax and customs duties are also low. The tax system reflects the country’s federal structure, which promotes competition between the cantons in respect of taxes. The country has signed bilateral double taxation agreements to avoid double taxation at the international level.